What causes rush hour traffic? Everyone leaving at the same time, going the same way, every day. When you add the tourists in and around NoLA, the traffic is going to be heavy, especially in the hour or two when everyone is trying to get to work or get home from work. It is almost impossible to avoid rush hour traffic if you must be at a certain place during that time. Rush hour traffic may not be the ideal situation, but it is difficult to avoid if you want to get around New Orleans.
Accidents During Rush Hour
When you have that many vehicles crowded together, there is going to be traffic accidents. Angry and frustrated drivers combined with reckless driving, distractions, and drivers who are tired is a dangerous combination. When you add higher rates of speed on the interstate, the combination can be deadly.
However, there are things you can do to make rush hour traffic less dangerous. When you are driving during rush hour remember to:
- Allow extra time to arrive at your destination. If you need to be at work at a certain time, you should try to leave home early enough to allow for traffic jams. If you get to work early, you can use the free time to read a book, listen to music, walk, or get a head start on your work.
- Avoid weaving in and out of traffic. It is very tempting to jump from one lane to another lane as you try to get ahead of the traffic jam. However, this practice only increases the chance of a traffic accident. It is better to get into the driving lane you will need to be in to turn off and stay in that lane.
- Avoid tailgating! Following too closely is one of the common causes of car accidents in high traffic. Assume that the vehicle in front of you will be starting and stopping suddenly. Allow extra room between your vehicle and the surrounding vehicles. Even low-impact accidents in traffic can result in serious injuries.
- Decrease distractions while in the car. Distracted driving has become one of the most common reasons for traffic accidents. During rush hour when traffic is moving slow, it is tempting to multitask in the car. Checking voice mail, reading texts, checking email, balancing your checkbook, reading mail, or other distraction can result in a deadly crash. You need to keep your eyes on the road, and your mind focused on driving to avoid accidents during rush hour.
Liability for Accidents During Rush Hour
When an accident occurs during rush hour, it can involve multiple vehicles. Determining fault and liability can be difficult. Even when there are only two vehicles, drivers may argue about who caused the collision. You need an experienced New Orleans car accident attorney to protect your legal rights. Our attorneys will investigate the accident to determine fault and gather evidence to prove liability.
If you have been injured in a rush hour traffic accident, contact Attorney Fred Olinde of The Olinde Firm for a free consultation. Call our office at (504) 587-1440 or 1-800-587-1889 to request a free consultation with a New Orleans accident attorney.